What to do in Amsterdam in December

In DecemberAmsterdam's buildings and canals are cloaked in a white fog that makes it all the more special.

What's more, the festive winter season starts in December, making the city even more dynamic.

You can often hear Christmas bells ringing, giving everyone a festive atmosphere.

Let's find out all you need to know about this special month in Amsterdam.

December in Amsterdam: article summary

Why visit Amsterdam in December?

L'winter is cold in Amsterdam and the city is covered in white snow, making it a white Christmas. What's more, the Festival of Light adds even more beauty to the canal rings, making the lights of Noël and the city's more special trees.

Christmas festivities take place throughout December. Take a stroll through the city's lively streets and discover the unique cuisine of the Netherlands.

With the city packed with activities such as ice skating, Christmas concerts and special New Year's evenings, everything will ensure that your Amsterdam vacations will be fully booked in December.

During the first two weeks of December, you can meet fewer people, making it an ideal time to visit Amsterdam for budget travellers.

Amsterdam weather in December

It's winter in Amsterdam and you can expect cold weather with some rain and snow. Daytime temperatures are around 6 to 7 °Cwhile night-time temperatures are on the rise. around 2 to 3°C.

I strongly recommend that you pack plenty of woolen clothes to keep warm during your Amsterdam vacation.

During this time of year, the weather is overcast and cloudy, and you can see the sunrise. around 8:30 am and sunset around 4:30 pm, leaving you little time to explore the outside world.

Amsterdam in December : Christmas markets

The festive season arrives in December with Christmas, and the whole city gets into the carnival mood. During this festive period, the first thing that comes to mind is buy gifts for your loved ones.

You can walk around and explore all the different types of markets to buy the best drinks and some local dishes for Christmas Eve.

You can also buy fashionable or traditional clothing at reasonable prices in the town. Shopkeepers will make sure you get the best value for your money. the best quality.

Amsterdam Festival of Lights

Visit festival of lights is one of Amsterdam's biggest winter events. You can see artists from different parts of the world entering themselves and exhibiting their wonderful work in this festival.

Over a thousand unique lights in various art forms can be seen on site at night. You can see these magnificent illuminations from a boat or cruise for the best experience.

Amsterdam in December: ice skating at Rembrandtplein

The temperature drops during the winter season, and if you're traveling to Amsterdam during this time of year, then this is your chance to skating at Rembrandtplein.

The canals freeze over in the cold winter, giving you the chance to walk or skate on the ice. This is a great activity to enjoy with friends and family, an unforgettable experience.

The Concertgebouw: the city's main stage

Another special place is the Concertgebouw. Your trip to Amsterdam will be a memorable one if you're a concert-goer.

You can often see the many concerts taking place in Amsterdam's concert halls. Throughout December, you can hear traditional choirs organized to create a festive atmosphere in the city.

The famous 3-day concert at the Concertgebouwplein is one of the best concerts that will give you the most amazing and exceptional experience. So be there for enjoy the unique atmosphere.

What to pack in your suitcase

You may encounter rain during December, and the temperature may turn cold. Be sure to pack warm, waterproof clothing such as :

• A waterproof jacket
• Waterproof boots or shoes
• Gloves
• A scarf and sweaters

Getting around Amsterdam in December

Getting around Amsterdam during the rains can be tricky. The bike is the simplest and most popular means of transport for most Amsterdamers.

However, I recommend that you take public transport at this time of year. All public transport services are well-established in the city and will take you to all the places you need to visit.

The various modes of transport for exploring Amsterdam are metrothe bus or the streetcar. Of all the 4, the streetcar is the simplest and cheapest mode of transport.

Visiting Amsterdam in December gives you the chance to see the city from a whole new angle. Of course, you'll be able to discover or rediscover the city's most famous landmarks and get lost in the narrow streets.

What to do in Amsterdam in 1 day, 2 days, 3 days, 5 days, a week?

Whatever the length of your stay, I invite you to download my special Amsterdam guide.

It's free and in PDF format.

All you have to do is tell me below which e-mail address you'd like to receive it at.

EDIT: you can't enter your email?

Take the quiz at the top of this article and you'll be able to register your email address to receive the special Amsterdam guide!